David Gest has passed away aged 62. The American actor and former Celebrity Big Brother star was found late Tuesday morning at the Four Seasons hotel in Canary Wharf.A statement from the Metropolitan Police read: "Police were called at 10:17hrs on Tuesday 12 April to the Four Seasons hotel, in Westferry Circus, E14, to reports of an unexplained death of a man in his 60s. London Ambulance Service were called to the scene. Life was pronounced extinct at the hotel. A post-mortem will be held in due course."
© Photo: Getty ImagesDavid Gest has passed away aged 62
David's close friend Imad Handi also released a statement. He said: "It is with great sadness that I can confirm that David Gest has died today. David was truly larger than life. He was not just a huge talent and a dear friend, but a showbiz icon. I know he will be missed by millions of fans around the world, and particularly in Britain, who came to love his charm and blistering one-liners."
Imad added: "If I may steal the words of one eminent critic, David was a natural star and genuine celebrity. I will miss him desperately."
David grew up in southern California, and counted Michael Jackson as one of his childhood best friends. He rose to prominence in the UK in 2006, after appearing on ITV's I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here.He was married to US singer Liza Minnelli from March 2002 to June 2003.His death is currently being treated as unexplained.
Kristina Rihanoff led the celebrity tributes
Kristina Rihanoff led the celebrity messages, writing: "I can't put it into words how truly sad I am to hear that the wonderful @DavidGest2016 past away. One of the best people I got to know in my life. "This Morning host Rylan Clark echoed her sentiments, adding: "Really sad to hear about David Gest. Really sad news".
Rylan Clark also shared his thoughts on the sad news
And The Only Way Is Essex star Jessica Wright said: "So sad to hear about David Gest. He seemed like such a lovely man".David's CBB housemate Christopher Maloney took to Twitter to pay tribute, writing: "Just found my great friend @DavidGest2016 has sadly passed away. My thoughts are with your family at this time".Former EastEnders actor Dean Gaffney added: "Never have I lost a best friend before and this pain hurts harder than anything I've ever experienced. RIP David Gest. I love you brother. X".
